Fitzwilliam String Quartet: 50 years since Shostakovich’s death

Sat 1 March 2025

Clare Hall

The Fitzwilliam String Quartet’s historical connection with Shostakovich is featured in this programme to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the composer’s death. They are joined by Clare Hall’s Musician-in-Residence, Patrick Hemmerlé. The selected pieces display the breadth of Shostakovich’s style from early to late. His first quartet is a musical picture of his childhood, the Polka an ironic example of his youthful style, and the great piano quintet, from the war years, shows neo baroque elements and his reverence for Bach.

Programme
Shostakovich String Quartet No. 1 in C major, Op.49

Two pieces for string quartet: Elegie and Polka

Shostakovich No. 11 in F minor, Op 122

Shostakovich Piano Quintet in G minor, Op.57 – with Patrick Hemmerlé

Cost: £5-20